Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation for Children Age 1 to Early Teens

Definition

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a series of steps to help a person who is not responding and has stopped breathing. CPR helps deliver oxygen rich blood to the body tissue when the body is not able to do this on its own.

Reasons for Procedure

CPR is given to a child who is not breathing. Reasons for this may include:

The outcome will depend on the cause and how soon effective CPR was initiated. Many are unable to regain a normal heartbeat after it has stopped.

Possible Complications

It is possible that
ribs will fracture
or break during chest compressions. Other complications, like a puncture of a lung, are also possible.

People with weakened bones have a higher risk of
fractures
from CPR. However, there is greater risk of death if CPR is delayed or not done correctly.

What to Do

Prior to Procedure

When you see a child suddenly collapse, or find a child unconscious on the ground, immediately check to see if they are responsive. Tap the child and ask: “Are you OK?” If the child is unresponsive, follow these steps:

If someone is with you, have that person call for emergency medical services right away. That person should also get the automatic external defibrillator (AED). An AED is a device that delivers electric shocks to the person's heart. If you are alone, do CPR for about 2 minutes before calling for medical help and getting the AED.

If the person is not breathing or only gasping, begin CPR by doing chest compressions:

Place the palm of your hand on the lower half of their chest directly over the sternum. One or 2 hands may be used.

Straighten your arms and lock your elbows. Begin pressing down in a straight motion. The compressions should be at least 2 inches deep.

Push hard and fast at a rate of 100 compressions per minute.

Allow the chest to rise completely between compressions.

Minimize interruption between compressions.

If you are trained in CPR, give 2 rescue breaths after 30 compressions. To give rescue breaths:

Open the airway by placing 1 hand on the forehead and lifting the chin with your other hand.

Gently tilt the head backward. Pinch the child's nose and cover their mouth with yours.

Breathe twice into their mouth until you see the chest rise. Breaths should be about 1 second each.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.